Preventing Suicide in the Military

In the last decade, military leaders have been reminded again and again that not all wounds are visible. This can be challenging at times to recognize the trauma, despair and pain someone may be facing, and the path to suicide often seems like the only option for people struggling to choose to live. Whether these wounds can easily be spotted or not, military leaders are determined to offer service members and their families contemplating suicide the support and help they need.

“This (suicide) is a tragedy that all leaders must address,” said Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen at U.S. Army Garrison Red Cloud, South Korea on July 21.

Stress, repeated deployments, combat duty and injury are factors that can impact the emotional stability for some. As a result, the Department of Defense is not only looking to behavioral health specialists to provide the support their patients need but they are also exploring alternative therapies and treatments...  Read More.